Norristown Club Water Skiis In Freezing Temperatures For Charity

By THERESA KATALINAS

PORT INDIAN, PA - Twenty-two water skiers braved chilly temperatures on New Year’s Day to help the Port Indian Ski Club raise $6,852.25 for Camp Rainbow Inc., an overnight summer camp serving deserving children in Montgomery County.

Organizer Brian Birsa said typically a dozen water skiers turn out for the fun-filled annual event, which also includes food, raffles and live entertainment. However, this year the club welcomed many first-time ski freeze participants.

“I am proud to watch this event grow and for our club to continue increasing its contribution to Camp Rainbow Inc.,” Birsa said. “It’s so rewarding to be able to come out, have fun and raise much-needed funds for the camp.”

In 2015, the Ski Freeze generated $3,200 for Camp Rainbow Inc., a nonprofit organization which operates its roughly $160,000 annual budget solely on donations.

Camp Rainbow Inc. Board President Stacey Bogus and Vice President/Executive Director Tom Johnson were on hand energizing the crowd and lending support to the camp’s friends at the Port Indian Ski Club.

“We are so grateful to the Port Indian Ski Club,” Johnson said. “The club’s generous contribution will ensure that 27 campers will be able to attend our week-long camp this summer.”

As the wildly popular event continues to grow, Birsa said precautions are taken to keep everyone safe. The Jeffersonville Fire Department Water Rescue team was on hand looking out for the safety of all skiers.

The A Team, a local motorcycle club, organized a group ride to also raise funds for Camp Rainbow, with 50 motorcycles roaring in to start the day’s festivities. Tony Russo of the Norristown Boat Club and Norristown Commercial Club coordinated displays of 16 classic and antique cars and also served as the event’s auctioneer.

Eight event sponsors provided assistance during the event, as well as contributions. Sponsors are: Bridgeport Rib House, Dietz and Watson, Offshore Marine, Welsh Subaru, Nippers Pub and Pizza, JPro Pools, Cycle Stop and Coffee Works.

About Camp Rainbow Inc.

Camp Rainbow Inc. was founded in 1951 by the Harold G. Knight Foundations. Camp Rainbow, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to offering deserving children of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania a week-long, overnight summer camping experience at a low cost to the family. The camp, which is located on 18 acres on the Perkiomen Creek in Lower Salford Township, serves children between age 7 and 16. Camp Rainbow Inc. prides itself on teaching children valuing behavior, how to give and receive honest feedback and take responsibility for one’s actions. To learn more about Camp Rainbow Inc., or to make a contribution, visit www.camprainbowinc.com.